A MULTI-MILLION pound scheme for a 60-bedroom hotel complex and flats at Broadmeadow, on the edge of Teignmouth, has been described as 'fantastic news'.

If approved it would bring a major boost to the local economy, create about 80 jobs and provide a modern landmark building on one of the main entrances to the resort.

It will add to the millions of pounds of public and private investment injected into the town in recent years.

Council officials believe the project could have huge benefits for Teignmouth. All the larger hotels in the town have now gone, and the tourist trade would receive a big fillip from a purpose-built budget hotel, which could accommodate more than 100 guests, and also feature an indoor pool, fitness suite, a function room and restaurant.

It would also regenerate the rundown Broadmeadow estate, which could receive even more investment if a scheme to attract a major supermarket comes to fruition.

The hotel complex has just been submitted to planners. R & J Enterprises wants outline consent for the hotel, workshops, 23 open market apartments and ten affordable flats, at the former Dairy Crest premises and adjacent land.

The scheme has been welcomed by councillors, and the leader of Teignbridge, Cllr Alan Connett, said: 'Obviously it is all subject to planning consent, but in principle I believe it is very good news. The lack of hotel space in Teignmouth has been a problem for some years.

'It shows that, despite the recession, people are still prepared to invest in Teignmouth and Teignbridge. The scheme really does have a lot of plusses.'

Teignmouth town and district councillor Terry Falcao, added: 'It is fantastic news – just what the town needs.

'My wife runs a bed and breakfast business, but we do not see this as competition – it will help to draw in more people to the town. And we are lacking a large function and confer ence area, so it ticks all the boxes for me.'

A planning statement by agent Peter Sheldon, of Dawlish – who confirmed that about 80 jobs could be created – says Teignbridge Council is prepared to sell an area of adjoining land it owns to the developer.

The development would improve the industrial estate, and achieve the Teignbridge aims of 'economic prosperity, job creation and community improvements'.

The statement said: 'The proposed use of the site is for a mixed and intensive development that will provide high quality development, meeting local needs and demands.

'The budget style hotel will provide a much needed boost to the local economy. Teignmouth lacks a dedicated provision for functions of 100 plus people.

'The location of this site is an important "gateway" location to Teignmouth. The materials chosen will need to be of a superior quality throughout.

'The principal attraction of the location is the elevated position that can be achieved, giving extensive views southwards and westwards down the River Teign.'